Ohio Truck Accident Help

A Division of Ohio Truck Accident

December 7, 2022

What to Do After a Truck Accident in Ohio?

Accident Types,   Driver Error,   Injuries,  

Smashed front headlight of a car after an accident

Every day in Ohio, 15,000 trucks drive on I-70 and I-75 alone. With such a significant percentage of daily traffic involving these vehicles, accidents happen more often than expected.

Why You Need a Lawyer After a Truck Crash

From investigating and gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance and fighting for compensation, discover how an experienced truck accident lawyer can make a significant difference in your claim.

Truck crashes are not only common; they are incredibly dangerous. These accidents often cause severe injuries that require a lengthy path to recovery. And it might feel like the moment you begin, insurance and legal matters interfere.

That’s why having a dedicated Ohio truck accident lawyer is important. An attorney can help make the aftermath of a crash feel manageable and secure the full compensation you need to recover.

Accidents with Trucks Are Dangerous

Ohio is one of the top 10 states for truck and bus accident fatalities. Even when an accident does not result in death, survivors can face critical injuries.

Multiple factors make an accident involving a truck so dangerous, including a truck’s size, weight, maneuverability, and type of cargo they carry.

Maneuvering a large truck requires skill, especially when roads have turns, hills, or narrow paths—often in more rural areas. Although thousands of trucks drive down Ohio interstates daily, nearly half of Ohio’s fatal truck crashes occurred in non-interstate rural areas from 2011 to 2020.

When factoring in the amount of cargo hauled by trucks, it’s no surprise how heavy they can become. In Ohio, trucks can weigh up to 40 tons without requiring an additional permit. More weight means more momentum and force during impact—especially when hitting a standard motor vehicle or pedestrian.

Additionally, the type of cargo influences how dangerous truck crashes are. Trucks can haul hazardous cargo, like flammable materials, or heavy cargo that can fall out during a collision. In a large commercial truck crash, their payloads can have devastating results.

What To Do After a Truck Crash?

1. Call 911

Immediately after a truck accident, call the police as soon as possible. Filing a police report will provide you with a documented assessment of the scene immediately after a crash. This report will be helpful when filing a claim as it can reinforce crucial details of your story.

2. Collect Any Evidence

Taking pictures, videos, and notes of the scene is critical to obtain full compensation. This evidence will prove the severity of damages and help you recall important details to your lawyer and an insurance company.

3. Seek Medical Care

It is imperative to seek emergency medical care after a truck accident—even if you think you are fine. Injuries such as head trauma may not always be obvious at first, but they can quickly turn life-threatening if left untreated. An evaluation from a healthcare professional can ensure you receive proper treatment for any injuries.

Medical treatment can also secure compensation if insurance companies challenge your claim. Showing that a truck crash warranted immediate medical care supports the severity of your injuries and accident.

4. Keep a Record of Expenses

In order to receive full compensation for treatments, medications, surgeries, and other forms of care, it is helpful to keep records of these medical expenses. This documentation will support your claim.

How to Recover Compensation after a Truck Crash

Even after following the initial steps, there are additional actions to recover compensation. You will need an estimate on any damages and medical expenses. You also must inform the truck driver, trucking company, and their insurance of your intent to file a claim or lawsuit.

Although truck crashes happen every day, each case is different, and compensation may not look the same. Your best option to determine exactly what you deserve is to find an attorney who looks at your individual case. Your lawyer will secure evidence, communicate with insurance companies, gather witness statements, and collect opinions from experts to help get you the maximum compensation.

Hurt By a Truck? Get Ohio Truck Accident Help

The aftermath of an Ohio truck crash can be confusing and overwhelming. Let Ohio Truck Accident Help ease the burden. We battle even the largest trucking and insurance companies and fight for maximum compensation.

Our attorneys have helped thousands of clients statewide achieve successful results. See if we can help you too. Call (855) 721-2737 today or use our online contact form for a free consultation.